In an exclusive partnership with Aero Vodochody and Williams International, Draken International is now offering next generation upgrades on L-39 aircraft in the Americas.
Based in Lakeland, Florida, home to SUN ’n FUN, Draken International is a provider of flight support as well as maintenance, repair and overhaul (MRO) services.
The L-39 upgrade program, or L-39NG upgrade, enables owners of Aero Vodochody L-39 aircraft in the Americas to implement a number of enhancements to deliver improvements in performance, technological capability, aircraft availability and safety, company officials said during this week’s fly-in.
The key feature of the L-39NG upgrade is the light and fuel-efficient Williams International FJ44-4M engine, which delivers improved performance at speed, range and endurance, company officials noted.
A new electric starter allows the original APU to be removed with all its components, saving considerable weight, officials add. In the cockpit, new digital instruments are added, as well as OEM overhauled ejection seats with fresh pyro.
The upgrade results in decreased fuel consumption by approximately 15%, decreased maintenance costs, improved acceleration time; and decreased aircraft weight by approximately 330 pounds, company officials report.
I would still rather have a VipeJet MkI II.